Pioneering Harm Reduction: The Netherlands adopted harm reduction strategies early, including the world's first needle and syringe program in 1984, which significantly reduced transmission of HIV and hepatitis B and C among people who inject drugs.

Comprehensive Services: Harm reduction programs extend beyond drug use, offering social support, welfare services, and housing, which contribute to their success in curbing the spread of infectious diseases and overdose mortality.​

Methadone Accessibility: Low-threshold methadone programs ensure easy access without barriers, leading to improved health outcomes and reduced injecting drug use among participants.

Impact of Cohort Studies: The Amsterdam Cohort Studies provided long-term data, demonstrating the effectiveness of combined harm reduction strategies (e.g., methadone and needle exchange) in reducing the risks of infection and mortality.​